Parrotia persica - Persian ironwood

Parrotia persica, generally known as the Persian ironwood, is a deciduous plant from the family of Hamamelidaceae. This species is endemic in the Hyrcan forests that extend along the south coast of the Caspian Sea in the north of Iran and in parts of Azerbaijan. Parrotia persica is highly valued due to its attractive autumn color, the unusual bark and its resistance to various environmental conditions in landscape design.

Morphology

Parrotia persica can grow as a small to medium -sized tree or large shrub and usually reach a height of 10 to 15 meters, in rare cases even up to 20 meters. The tree has a wide, expansive crown with an irregular growth shape. One of the most striking characteristics of this kind is the bark, which in older specimens in thin, scaly plates and reveals a mosaic structure of different gray, brown and green colors.

The leaves of Parrotia persica are oval to elliptical, about 6 to 15 centimeters long and 4 to 10 centimeters wide. They are alternately arranged and have a slightly wavy edge, which is often colored reddish. In the spring, the leaves run out of reddish bronze colors, accept a rich, dark green color in summer and dye spectacularly in various yellow, orange, red and purple tones in autumn. This impressive autumn color makes the tree a popular ornamental treble in gardens and parks.

The flowers appear early in the year, often in February or March, even before the leaves sprout. The flowers are small, without striking petals and sit in dense tufts. They mainly consist of red stamens that give the flowers a thread -like look. Despite their inconspicuousness, the flowers are an important source of food for early pollinators such as bees.

The fruit of Parrotia persica is a small, woody capsule that contains two seeds. The fruit is inconspicuous and has no economic importance.

Distribution and habitat

Parrotia persica is at home in the Hyrcan forests of Iran and Azerbaijan. These forests extend along the south coast of the Caspian Sea and are among the oldest and most diverse forests in the northern hemisphere. Parrotia persica grows there in mixed forests together with other species such as the Caucasian wing (Pterocarya fraxinifolia), the Caucasian Zelkove (Zelkova carpinifolia) and the Oriental Book (Fagus orientalis).

The Persian ironwood thrives in damp, well -permeable soils and preferably locations with high humidity and moderately acidic to neutral soil conditions. It is adapted to a moderate climate, with mild winters and warm summers, but can also withstand frost up to about -20 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in different regions of Europe and North America.

Ecology and adjustments

Parrotia persica plays an important role in the Hyrcan forests, both ecologically and aesthetic. The tree contributes to the structure of these forests and offers habitat for numerous animal species. The dense foliage offers protection and nesting opportunities for birds, while the tree itself represents an important source of food for pollinating insects in early spring.

Parrotia persica's adjustments to its environment are diverse. The ability to survive in frost conditions and tolerance to dryness make the tree resistant to climate fluctuations. In addition, the thick, scaly bark protects the tree from outer influences and contributes to the durability. Some specimens can live over 100 years.

Meaning and use

In garden and landscape design, Parrotia persica is often used due to its impressive autumn color, its attractive bark and its general robustness. It is particularly popular in large gardens and parks, where it is planted as a solitaire tree or in groups. The diversity of the foliage in autumn makes it a preferred ornamental tree in regions with a moderate climate.

In addition, Parrotia persica has a historical importance in his home region. The Hyrcan forests in which this tree is native are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are of great importance for nature conservation. The tree itself is a symbol of the old and rich flora of this region.